It's funny because I have been a professional photographer for almost 11 years yet this is the first year that I really feel like I am truly creating a career for myself. So, I could pretend and act like I have my life all together but thats never really been my style, has it? In true Misty fashion, I'm going to get very real. And in not so Misty fashion, I'm going to ask for help.

So most of you know that I went through a divorce over a year ago, but I also went through some major life questions on what I wanted and who I really was. I started to question, in particular, my profession as a photographer. I got a bit burned out. And so I took some time off this past year. I have found that its best to ask those closest to you as to what they see me doing, listening well to their replies. As I asked, I kept hearing them say- don't stop photography, Misty. You have a gift. I let those words soak in, marinate a bit. And I came to the same conclusion. Photography is what I want to do with my life.

So here is where I ask for help. And this feels super vulnerable & super scary. And maybe a bit awkward, like I shouldn't be doing this here. But that inner voice calls to me so here I stand. I have been doing this business mostly part time for the past 11 years. Mainly because I always had a child at home but also because I didn't financially need a full time job. Well both of those things have changed for me. My youngest just started kindergarten and I am now a single mother of three who needs more money. Honestly, I hate money and if I could take your photographs for free, I would. But I have to feed my children organic chicken so I need money.

If you like my work & don't need photographs, could you please pass my name on to anyone that might need my services. If you enjoy my instagram posts, could you share them? If I take photographs of your family, could you post a photo online and give me a few good words of recommendation? If you like my work & need photographs, could you ask me to photograph you or your family? UGH. This feels so weird. But I want to do this work. And I can't do it without your help. You are my people. And I want to tell your stories.

So, in short, I humble myself and ask for your help, in whatever way you can give it to me. I need more business to survive. And I want to survive. I listened to a podcast the other day by Rob Bell and he told the story of Jesus healing the blind man while asking him, "What is it that you want?" And I have been asking myself that question too. Misty, "what is it that you want?" And here is my answer: I want to help people feel not alone. And I want to do that through photographs. Give me the chance to fill your walls with the people you love so you can feel less alone in this lonely, hard, cruel world.

I truly love all of you. Thank you for supporting me all of these years and in the years to come.